Highlights
- Sydney Sweeney embodies the physical and emotional challenges of portraying trailblazing boxer Christy Martin in an upcoming biopic.
- The film delves into Martin’s triumph over adversity, showcasing her resilience in the face of personal demons and toxic relationships.
- Director David Michôd emphasizes Martin’s incredible rise and struggles, highlighting her use of boxing as a means of self-expression.
Sydney Sweeney, known for her roles in hit films such as Anyone But You and the hit TV series Euphoria is gearing up for her next challenge as she steps into the ring to portray trailblazing boxer Christy Martin in an upcoming biopic. The project, set to be launched by Black Bear at the Cannes market, has already generated significant buzz.
Under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker David Michôd, the untitled biopic will delve into the inspiring journey of Christy Martin, who rose to prominence as America’s most well-known female boxer in the 1990s. Described as the “female Rocky” by the film’s producers, Martin shattered gender stereotypes and symbolized resilience inside and outside the ring.
10 Best Boxing Movies Of All Time, Ranked
Hollywood has had a long-time love affair with boxing. These ten are the pound-for-pound best.
Sydney Sweeney Looks To Utilize Combat Sports Background To Play Christy Martin
The Hollywood Star Details The Challenges of Portraying A Boxer
Martin’s story is one of triumph over adversity, as she navigated personal demons, toxic relationships, and even a brutal attempt on her life. According to Deadline, Sydney Sweeney, who has a passion for boxing and MMA, expressed her excitement for the role, stating:
“I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old. I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body. Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”
“Christy Martin not only legitimized female boxing, she overcame gender stereotypes, and fought through emotional, physical, and financial abuse. I’m passionate about the fighting world, Christy’s story shines a light on her incredible rise to the top while showing the struggles of fame behind the curtains. I feel compelled to tell a story about a woman who faced so much adversity and didn’t allow it to defeat her. It’s powerful, and emotional.”
Director David Michôd shared his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting Martin’s ferocious energy and the compelling nature of her story. He emphasized the film’s exploration of Martin’s struggles as a young gay woman in 1990s West Virginia, using boxing as a means of self-expression and empowerment.
The biopic, slated to begin filming in the fall in the U.S., will be presented to international buyers at the Cannes market. Joining Sweeney and Michôd on the project are producers Kerry Kohansky-Roberts, Justin Lothrop, Brent Stiefel, and Teddy Schwarzman, among others.
With Martin herself collaborating with the filmmaking team, the biopic promises to offer audiences a riveting and heartfelt portrayal of her remarkable journey.
In 2016, Martin achieved a historic milestone as the inaugural female boxer to be honored with induction into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. Further solidifying her legacy, Martin was later elected to the prestigious International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, marking a significant moment as the first year women were included on the ballot.
However, amidst her professional accolades, Martin faced a harrowing personal ordeal in 2010 when her husband attempted to take her life. Following a trial, he was convicted of attempted second-degree murder and received a severe sentence of 25 years in prison.
